When thinking of a way to give back to the community, Voyager RV thought to themselves they would get their customers involved as well.
That sparked the Voyager Cares initiative. In this, customers who bought an RV got to pick one of six local charities and part of the proceeds from the sale would go towards the charity of their choosing.
In total, $220,940 was raised and recently, Voyager RV went to the local charities to hand them a giant cheque.
“It’s a simple concept, but it works really well because our staff and now our customers get to be a huge part of it,” said Voyager RV vice president Jason Friesen. “From our employees working hard to find, sell, service and clean the RVs each month, to our loyal customer base who end up choosing us as their RV dealer of choice. It all leads to us being in a position to be able to choose to make these substantial donation amounts. It’s a pretty cool experience for all.”
Here is the six charities and what they received:
- Autism Okanagan - $20,040;
- Child & Youth Advocacy Centre (CYAC) - $41,546;
- Central Okanagan Food Bank - $19,420;
- Kelowna's Women's Shelter - $18,020;
- KGH Foundation - $16,760.
The remainder of the money was divided among the remaining charities.
“We operate the entire centre off of donations and grants, which means every single program and service we offer is made possible through the generosity of others,” said CYAC's Ginny Becker. “We’re incredibly grateful for community support because it truly is what allows this entire place to exist, operate, and continue helping children and youth in need.”
When Voyager RV visited CYAC, they took a tour of the facility.
“It’s moments like these that show the true impact of Voyager Cares. For businesses, it can’t just be about the numbers or profits—a part of what we get to do has to be about seeing if we can help make life better for others,” Friesen added. “Our community has treated us so well here over the years. So even in these tougher economic times, we have to make sure to give back.”
